By Adrienne Christiane. Hockey Gear and Equipment. Published at Friday, April 13th, 2018 15:49:04 PM.

In some ways a breakaway might be easier than a penalty shot because you don′t have time to think about it. On a penalty shot you have more time to think and you know everybody′s watching you. A breakaway is just part of the game. Just go with the flow....

By Adrienne Christiane. Hockey Gear and Equipment. Published at Friday, April 13th, 2018 15:48:44 PM.

To carry out the proper checks along the boards you must learn to force the puck carrier towards the boards. The key is to steer the puck carrier in the direction you want by angling him or her into the boards under a controlled speed : Keep yourself stick-to-stick and...

By Adrienne Christiane. Hockey Gear and Equipment. Published at Friday, April 13th, 2018 15:48:30 PM.

It's not that we will or should agree with every decision the DOPS makes. Even its members have told me they don't want or expect that. It's just that we'll wring our hands over suspensions far less if we understand a few important rules and misconceptions. The next time you...

By Adrienne Christiane. Hockey Gear and Equipment. Published at Friday, April 13th, 2018 15:48:38 PM.

Players must learn to protect themselves especially along the boards. When going into the corner use some fakes with your body stick or skates to avoid being a stationary target. Keep your skates parallel to the boards rather than pointing toward the boards. As soon as you pick up the...

By Adrienne Christiane. Hockey Gear and Equipment. Published at Friday, April 13th, 2018 15:48:51 PM.

When it comes to receiving a pass you want to turn the blade slightly toward the ice to form a pocket. Keep the angle of the blade so it takes the puck squarely. Don′t hold the stick too tightly when you are receiving a hard pass or the puck will...

By Adrienne Christiane. Hockey Gear and Equipment. Published at Friday, April 13th, 2018 15:48:57 PM.

WORK ETHIC AND FITNESS You need to be the hardest worker and most fit player on your team. New York Rangers goalie Mike Richter won the fitness award every year. Hall of Famer Ed Belfour used to run triathlons. St. Louis′ Brian Elliott is the hardest-working goalie I′ve ever coached....

By Adrienne Christiane. Hockey Gear and Equipment. Published at Friday, April 13th, 2018 15:49:10 PM.

You can practice your backhander just like you would the wrist shot. Line up near the boards with some pucks. Pick out spots on the boards (one low and one high) and practice hitting the target. Remember to concentrate on your weight transfer and follow through. It′s also good to...